KUALA LUMPUR, -- Universal Avionics and Heli-One are announcing cockpit upgrades to be performed on a fleet of Sikorsky S-61A-4 NURI helicopters for an Asian operator, featuring Universal’s EFI-890H Advanced Flight Displays and Multi-Missions Management System (MMMS).

Universal Avionics Authorized Dealer, Heli-One, is set to perform the design and installation for the initial aircraft with an Asian Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) organization performing the upgrades for the remainder of the fleet.

The S-61 upgrade includes four EFI-890H Advanced Flight Displays and a single UNS-1Lw MMMS, Universal’s Flight Management System (FMS) for mission support. The displays and MMMS integrate with new dual LCR-100 Attitude Heading Reference System sensors, dual Thommen AC-32 Air Data Computers, dual Rockwell Collins NAV-4000s, DF-938 Direction Finder, a single DME-4000 and a new EuroAvionics EuroNav 7 Mission Computer.

In addition, a new RDR-1600 Search Radar is being fitted and will be displayed on the EFI-890H Multi-Function Displays. The displays are Night Vision Goggle-compatible and also integrate with the existing AN/APN-209 Radar Altimeters and GE SN-502 Autopilot.

"This program is the latest in our ongoing partnership with Heli-One," said Grady Dees, Universal Avionics Director of Technical Sales. "Heli-One has proven its expertise in complex integrations throughout our relationship and in leveraging the integration flexibility of the EFI-890H and FMS/MMMS. Together, we will be able to offer the best solution yet for modernization of the avionics in the S-61 platform. Future enhancements to provide additional functionality are already in planning at Universal Avionics."

The new and modernized flight deck enables the aircraft to fly in all weather conditions and both day and night, by leveraging new functionality including Night Vision Imaging System operations. The MMMS provides a significant improvement in search and rescue operations with the built-in search patterns and will be coupled with the GE SN-502 Autopilot. In addition, the upgrade allows for significant extension of the aircrafts’ lifespans.

The design and first aircraft installation for the S-61 is expected to be completed in time for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in March 2017.